A new nuclear power station in Hinkley, Somerset, is a step closer to becoming reality and could be operational within nine years, according to the This is Somerset website. Ten new plants are reportedly being pushed through a "fast-tracked" planning process, to supply up to 25% of the country's energy needs.

Anti-nuclear activists fear that the plants would be a health hazard (a 2005 report saying there was categorically no evidence that living near nuclear power stations increased the rate of childhood cancers has been challenged by German research), and are concerned about their environmental and financial cost. And while there are promises of consultation, there will be no right of veto for local people on big projects. But the plants offer a renewable source of energy and promise to ease unemployment, bringing many highly skilled jobs to the areas in which they are built.

So would you feel comfortable living within walking distance of a nuclear power station?